
Master of Library Sciences
Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS or M.Lib.I.Sc) is a postgraduate programme that builds on a first degree in library science to prepare students for senior roles in library and information management. Most universities offer it as a one-year programme for BLIS graduates, while some universities run a two-year MLIS open to graduates of any discipline. It covers advanced library classification and cataloguing, information retrieval, research methods, library automation and digital library systems, along with a dissertation or project. The degree is offered under UGC norms through university departments of library and information science. MLIS suits BLIS graduates and working library professionals who want a senior librarian role, a teaching and research career, or eligibility for UGC-NET in library science.
About Master of Library Sciences
Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS or M.Lib.I.Sc) is a postgraduate programme that builds on a first degree in library science to prepare students for senior roles in library and information management. Most universities offer it as a one-year programme for BLIS graduates, while some universities run a two-year MLIS open to graduates of any discipline. It covers advanced library classification and cataloguing, information retrieval, research methods, library automation and digital library systems, along with a dissertation or project. The degree is offered under UGC norms through university departments of library and information science. MLIS suits BLIS graduates and working library professionals who want a senior librarian role, a teaching and research career, or eligibility for UGC-NET in library science.
Why Choose MLIS
Advances a library science career
MLIS builds on BLIS with advanced cataloguing, digital library and management skills for senior roles.
Opens teaching and research roles
Combined with UGC-NET, MLIS is generally required for lecturer posts in library and information science.
Growing digital library focus
The curriculum covers library automation, digital repositories and information systems used in modern libraries.
Short postgraduate commitment
At one year for most BLIS graduates, MLIS adds an advanced qualification without a long additional commitment.
Detailed Syllabus (2 semesters over 1 year at most universities (a few offer a 2-year MLIS))
Core Subjects
Elective Subjects
Eligibility Criteria
Basic Requirements
| Minimum Percentage | A BLIS degree for the one-year MLIS at most universities, or a bachelor's degree in any discipline for universities that offer a two-year MLIS; most ask for 45–50% aggregate marks. |
| Mandatory Subjects | BLIS or equivalent for the one-year programme; none mandatory for the two-year programme open to any graduate |
| Entrance Exams | Most universities admit on BLIS or graduation marks; a few conduct their own entrance test |
Admission Process
Complete BLIS or graduation
Complete a BLIS degree (for the one-year route) or a bachelor's degree in any discipline (for the two-year route), meeting the minimum percentage required.
Apply to the university
Fill the application form of the university department offering MLIS.
Entrance test, if applicable
Appear for the university's own entrance test where one is conducted; many universities admit directly on marks.
Merit list
Check the merit list based on qualifying marks or the entrance test score.
Admission confirmation
Complete document verification, pay the admission fee and complete enrolment formalities.
Required Documents
Important Notes
Estimated Fee Structure
| Government Institutions | ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 per year (indicative) |
| Private Institutions | ₹20,000 – ₹31,000 per year (typical range across 17 colleges on CollegeChalo) |
Return on Investment
| Total Investment | ₹5,000 – ₹31,000 over 1 year, depending on a government or private institution |
| Average Starting Salary | ₹2.2–3.5 LPA |
| Payback Period | Less than 1 year to 2 years |
Figures are indicative and vary by institution, location and individual career path; they are not a guarantee of placement or salary.
Scholarship Opportunities
| PM-USP Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students | Regular full-time PG students above the 80th percentile in their Class 12 board exam, with family income up to ₹4.5 lakh a year. | ₹12,000 per year (UG, first three years); ₹20,000 per year (PG, and years 4–5 of five-year courses) |
| Post-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST/OBC students | SC, ST or OBC students within the applicable income limit, applied for through the National Scholarship Portal or the relevant state portal. | Fees and a maintenance allowance; amounts set by the Centre and states |
Career Opportunities
Top Recruiters
Typical Salary Packages
| Senior Librarian | Avg: ₹3 LPA | Range: ₹2.2–4.5 LPA |
| Information Officer | Avg: ₹3 LPA | Range: ₹2.5–4.5 LPA |
| Documentation Officer | Avg: ₹2.8 LPA | Range: ₹2.2–4 LPA |
| Library Science Lecturer (after NET) | Avg: ₹4 LPA | Range: ₹3–6 LPA |
* These are indicative figures based on industry patterns; actual packages vary by employer, location and individual performance.
Career Pathway
Entry Level
0–2 yearsGraduates typically start as librarians or documentation assistants, often building on prior BLIS-level experience.
Mid Level
2–5 yearsWith experience, professionals take charge of a library section or information service.
Senior Level
5–10 yearsExperienced professionals head a library or a major information department, often at a university.
Advanced
10+ yearsAt a senior level, professionals with UGC-NET or a PhD may head a university library or an academic department.